New Delhi: An expressway, a high-speed divided highway to control fast-moving traffic, is necessary in most urban cities today. India has a total of 44 expressways, which is the third-highest number of expressways in the world after China and the United States. Supporting the country’s high population and its economic and transportation needs, the construction of expressways has transformed the lives of those living in and around these areas, significantly improving connectivity between key cities and regions. Having 13 expressways covering 1,500 km, Uttar Pradesh is the most connected state of India.
The Gorakhpur Link Expressway is the latest expressway under construction in the state. Let’s examine some facts about this ambitious project.
About Gorakhpur Link Expressway
Launched in 2018 by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, with the land acquisition by the government beginning in 2019, the Gorakhpur Link Expressway, a 91.352 km long expressway with four lanes, will provide faster connectivity and a better commuter experience as well as help in getting the population of affected areas closer. Of the 343 structures to be built on the expressway, 337 have been constructed. The overall progress of the expressway stands at 98 per cent, according to the UP Expressways Industrial Development Authority.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway Route Map
This four-lane expressway, which spans 91.35 km, runs through four districts of Uttar Pradesh (Gorakhpur, Sant Kabir Nagar, Ambedkar Nagar, and Azamgarh). It connects Jaitpur village on the Gorakhpur bypass in the Gorakhpur district with the small hamlet of Salarpur, located on the Purvachal Expressway in the Azamgarh district.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway Travel Time
With the construction of this 91 km flyover, the estimated travel time will be around 4 to 5 hours.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway Speed Limit
While the government has not officially announced a speed limit to be adhered to, certain heavy and slow-moving vehicles might have restricted access during peak hours to ensure smooth traffic flow.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway Vehicle Rules
The Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) has not issued any vehicle rules yet. However, there will be rules regarding speed limits, lane usage, and other safety measures.
Key Details about Gorakhpur Link Expressway
| Project Name | Gorakhpur Link Expressway |
| Major Junctions | Jaitpur and Salarpur |
| Construction Status | In progress |
| Opening date | 2024 |
| Cost | Rs. 5876.67 Crore |
| Length | 91.35 km |
| Lanes | 4 lanes, expandable to 6 |
| Construction maintenance | Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) |
| Travel Time | 1.5 hours |
| State to be connected | Uttar Pradesh |
| Major districts | Gorakhpur, Azamgarh, Ambedkarnagar, Sant Kabir Nagar |
Gorakhpur Link Expressway Features & Facilities
The expressway was constructed to convey and carry the cultural and commercial values from Gorakhpur to Azamgarh and vice-versa, with the following features and facilities available:
A four-lane expressway which can accommodate high traffic can be widened to six lanes to streamline traffic flow
The route includes 2 toll plazas, 3 ramp plazas, 7 flyovers, 7 major bridges, 27 minor bridges, 16 vehicular underpasses (VUPs), 50 Light VUPs, and 35 pedestrian underpasses.
The expressway will be fully access-controlled and have service roads to prevent local traffic from obstructing high-speed vehicles.
A link with Varanasi will also be created for greater connectivity
The construction of the expressway is expected to reduce fuel consumption and environmental pollution by vehicles.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway Cost
The total cost of the project, including the land acquisition amount, is estimated to be Rs. 5876.67 Crore.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway Toll and Rates
Since the expressway is still under construction, the toll rates are currently not known. Highway authorities in India usually charge a toll of Rs 2.19 per km, and a monthly pass of Rs. 330 is available for local non-commercial vehicles residing within 20 km of the toll plaza.